Writing Style Guide
1. Use Active Voice
Active: "The team deployed the update." Passive: "The update was deployed by the team." Active is clearer and more direct.
2. One Idea Per Sentence
Long sentences with multiple ideas are hard to parse. Break them into shorter sentences (target: 15โ20 words average).
3. Front-load Key Information
Start with the most important point. Readers scan โ don't bury the lead in paragraph 3.
4. Use Parallel Structure in Lists
All bullet points should start with the same grammatical form (all verbs, all nouns, etc.).
5. Avoid Jargon Without Explanation
If you must use technical terms, define them on first use or add a glossary.
6. Use Concrete Examples
Abstract concepts become clear with examples. "For instance...", "Consider this scenario..." work well.
7. Edit Ruthlessly
First draft: write freely. Second draft: cut 20%. Third draft: cut another 10%. Kill your darlings.
8. Read Aloud
Reading your text aloud reveals awkward phrasing, missing words, and overly complex sentences that eyes skip over.